This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food mash-up. It’s got all the bold flavors of a taco combined with the cozy, cheesy goodness of pasta.
The best part? It’s super easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’s going to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
Taco night meets pasta night with this Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta – a quick and comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pack taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Substitute Ingredients
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, use black beans or lentils instead of the beef. For a dairy-free version, substitute the sour cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.
You can even use gluten-free pasta if you’re looking to make this dish gluten-friendly without compromising flavor.
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking your pasta following the package instructions. Once it’s perfectly cooked, drain it and set it aside to cool slightly.
This will give it time to rest while you work on the other flavorful components of this dish. Trust us, the pasta is about to get a serious upgrade.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in your diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they turn golden and release their delicious aroma.
Now, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and cooked through, forming the hearty base for your pasta dish.
3. Add Seasonings and Veggies:
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and mix it through, ensuring the beef is evenly coated with all those zesty flavors.
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, juices and all, stirring to combine.
Next, add the sweet corn and hearty black beans to the mix, creating a vibrant, savory combo that will elevate every bite of your dish.
4. Mix in the Pasta:
Turn the heat down to medium and add the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring every piece is coated in the tasty mixture.
Pour in the chicken or beef broth, giving everything a good stir to combine.
Let the whole thing simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and become even more delicious.
5. Make it Cheesy:
Once the pasta and beef are well combined, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream, blending it in until smooth and creamy.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of your pasta, then cover the skillet with a lid or foil.
Let the heat work its magic, melting the cheese into a gooey, delicious topping.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese has melted into a bubbly, golden crust, it’s time to dig in! Your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is ready to serve.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions to add a burst of freshness and flavor. This dish is your new favorite weeknight meal—packed with comfort and irresistible taco flair.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is incredibly versatile! Serve it with a side of crispy tortilla chips for some added crunch or alongside a fresh, tangy salad to balance out the richness.
You can also pair it with a dollop of guacamole or a few spoonfuls of salsa for extra flavor. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, top it with some sour cream or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
It’s comfort food at its best!
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it seems too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to its creamy, cheesy consistency.
This dish also freezes well—just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
This cheesy, taco-flavored pasta is the ultimate comfort food mash-up! It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious – perfect for any busy night when you’re craving something flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy every bite!